Cover Feature: Unlocking Lignin′s Potential: Engineered Bacterial Laccases to Produce Biologically Active Molecules (ChemSusChem 7/2025)

The Cover Feature shows laccases as biocatalysts with high potential in lignocellulose biorefineries. Protein engineering has enhanced their efficiency for valorizing lignin monomers into value-added biologically active molecules. This biocatalytic process is solvent-free, achieves faster reaction times, uses lower amounts of enzyme, and delivers excellent yields (up to 100 %). The work advances lignin combinatory chemistry knowledge and marks a step forward in producing sustainable and eco-friendly natural dimeric compounds for medicinal chemistry and polymer synthesis. More information can be found in the Research Article by M. P. Robalo, M. R. Ventura, L. O. Martins and co-workers (DOI: 10.1002/cssc.202401386). Cover design: Joel Arruda (ITQB-NOVA Science Communication Office).